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How Can I Replace My Missing Teeth?

What is Edentulism?

Edentulism, or tooth loss, is irreversible and often the final result of dental disease (Emami, Freitas de Souza, Kabawat, & Feine, 2013). Edentulism affects approximately 9 million people in the United States, with 25% of adults over 60 years of age experiencing tooth loss (Emami et al., 2013). Partial edentulism can be defined as the loss of at least one tooth or multiple teeth; complete edentulism is defined as the loss of all teeth. Missing teeth can cause adjacent teeth to drift or rotate. Additionally, poor occlusion (bite) due to missing teeth can cause unnecessary strain on remaining teeth and the temporomandibular (TMJ) joint resulting in cracked teeth and
jaw pain.

How can I prevent edentulism?

Tooth loss can occur for several reasons including periodontal (gum) disease, tooth decay (cavities), or trauma. Good oral hygiene, such as twice daily brushing and once daily flossing, can significantly reduce your chances of developing periodontal disease or tooth decay. You can further reduce your risk of tooth decay with a diet low in sugar and/or carbohydrates. Additionally, it is important to see your dentist regularly for early diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease or tooth decay. Prompt treatment of dental disease is important to prevent progression to the point of tooth loss. Even with all these precautions, edentulism can still occur due to trauma. A properly fitted mouthguard can protect your teeth from trauma when playing sports or from trauma related to clenching/grinding.

How can edentulism be treated?

Multiple options exist from treatment of edentulism including implants, bridges, and dentures. Dental implants are an excellent choice to replace one or multiple teeth, are the most like a natural tooth, and have the best long-term prognosis. Bridges are another solution for replacing missing teeth. This procedure requires preparing the teeth adjacent to the site of the missing tooth and then permanently cementing the bridge. A bridge requires daily flossing under the replacement or “fake” tooth. Partial and complete dentures are removable appliances to replace
missing teeth. They are the most cost-effective option; however, they are often the most difficult to tolerate and may require several adjustments to continue adequate use. It is important to remove and clean dentures nightly to maintain proper oral health. In some cases, implant retained dentures may be an option for a more secure fit. Please visit the links below for further information on implants, bridges, and dentures.

How can Crystal Coast Dentistry help?

Dr. Jeffrey Scott and his team can help you prevent edentulism through regular examinations and early diagnosis of dental disease concerns. Examinations are recommended every six months for individuals with good oral health or more frequently for individuals with existing dental disease concerns such as periodontal disease. Dr. Scott is very skilled in all aspects of edentulism treatment including implants, bridges, and dentures. Additionally, Dr. Scott can custom fit mouth guards for tooth protection to prevent tooth loss. Don’t hesitate to contact Crystal Coast Dentistry with any questions on edentulism or to schedule your consultation to replace missing
teeth.

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Reference: Emami, E., Freitas de Souza, R., Kabawat, M., & Feine, J. S. (2013). The impact of edentulism on oral and general health. International Journal of Dentistry, 2013(498305), 1-7.  https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/498305

Diabetes and Oral Health

Can Diabetes affect your teeth?

According to the American Dental Association, individuals with diabetes have a much greater chance of losing teeth or developing periodontal disease over their lifetime. In fact, 25% of people with diabetes also have periodontal disease. Additionally, poor oral health is associated with an increased risk for developing diabetes and makes controlling diabetic conditions, such as blood sugar levels, much more difficult. Maintaining good oral health may even help lower your A1C levels.

What can I do to prevent periodontal disease?

When excessive bacteria-containing plaque is left on the teeth on a our bodies respond with an inflammatory process.  Excellent oral hygiene can prevent the overgrowth of bacteria that will lead to periodontal disease. Daily oral hygiene habits should always include:

  • Brushing twice daily for a full 2 minutes with a soft toothbrush
  • Flossing below the gumline once daily

Additional, oral hygiene habits that effectively remove plaque and kill bacteria include:

  • Using an electric toothbrush
  • Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash

What are the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease?

Periodontal disease, also called gum disease, is caused when an overgrowth of bacteria in the mouth lead to inflammation of the gum tissues.  If plaque is not removed daily, it can harden into a substance called calculus or tartar. This calculus cannot be effectively removed with brushing and flossing alone.  Some of the signs and symptoms of periodontal or gum disease include:

  • Bad breath
  • Bleeding gums
  • Swollen, sore, or red gums
  • Receding gums or gums that are pulling away from the teeth
  • Sensitive teeth
  • Loose teeth
  • A change in bite alignment

The only way to know for sure if you have periodontal disease is to have an examination by a dentist or dental hygienist. The current stand of care to properly assess periodontal conditions is:

  • A full mouth series of dental x-rays at least once every 5 years
  • A full mouth periodontal probing assessment annually

What if I already have periodontal disease?

Effective treatment of periodontal disease is possible. The first step in treatment is removal of the plaque, calculus, and bacteria. This procedure is usually completed by a dental hygienist in as little as two appointments. The dentist and hygienist will then make further recommendations, personalized to your individual needs, for homecare and follow-up care.

How can Crystal Coast Dentistry help?

Dr. Jeff Scott and his team are highly qualified in the diagnosis and treatment of periodontal disease.  Their state-of-the-art digital imaging software and detailed periodontal charting regiment will provide you with a comprehensive assessment of your periodontal condition. Please don’t hesitate to contact Crystal Coast Dentistry with additional questions about periodontal disease or diabetes. Let us help you control and maintain your diabetes with excellent oral health.

Click to call from mobile 252-393-8168

Caring for Our Eastern NC Community

North Carolina Mission of Mercy Dental logoCrystal Coast Dentistry was delighted to take part in the North Carolina Missions of Mercy (NCMOM) clinic held in New Bern, North Carolina on October 27-28, 2017. Our team from Cape Carteret, NC joined other dental professionals to provide free dental care to over 800 patients from Eastern North Carolina.

NCMOM is a program organized by the North Carolina Dental Society (NCDS) and operates throughout North Carolina. Each clinic is designed to be a full dental clinic with digital x-ray, sterilization, and all instrumentation and supplies. Free dental services are offered to patients who are at 200 percent below the poverty line. According to the NCDS website, over 55,000 North Carolinians have been helped since 2003. The next NCMOM clinic will be offered in Fayetteville in 2018.

Watch for Dr. Scott in the Video from WCTI Here.

At Crystal Coast Dentistry we work to provide excellent dental care for patients of all ages and income levels. For those without Dental Insurance, we have created a special In-House Dental Benefits Plan. Our office in Cape Carteret, NC is conveniently located for those living near the Crystal Coast, NC.

Periodontal Disease Diagnosis and Treatment at Crystal Coast Dentistry

Periodontal disease is an advanced form of gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) that has progressed to infection. As microorganisms adhere to and grow on the tooth’s surface the body reacts with an over-aggressive immune response that results in destruction of bone and soft tissue. The doctors at Crystal Coast Dentistry in Cape Carteret, NC diagnose and stage periodontal disease through inspection of the soft tissues around the teeth and evaluation of the patient’s X-ray films.

Symptoms of periodontal disease include bleeding, receding gums, bad breath, and the formation of pockets between the gums and the teeth. As the infection progresses beneath the gumline tooth mobility and loss may result. The doctors at Crystal Coast Dentistry are dedicated to treating patients with periodontal disease to minimize disease progression and preserve healthy tissues. Successful treatment may include special cleaning of the teeth and root surfaces by a dental hygienist (scaling and root planing) and antibiotic therapy.

Dental Hygienists at Crystal Coast Dentistry provide thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums for patients with periodontal disease through scaling, which removes calculus and bacteria from the tooth surfaces. Root planing may also be necessary to smooth the root surfaces so that the likelihood of further calculus and endotoxin buildup is minimized. Our doctors may recommend the use of topical (mouth rinses or gels) or oral antibiotics to minimize bacterial infection.

If you think you may have periodontal disease and live in the Cape Carteret, Cedar Point, Swansboro, Hubert, Newport, Havelock, Morehead City, or surrounding areas, come see us at Crystal Coast Dentistry! Our dental professionals can discuss diagnosis and treatment options that will work for you. 252-393-8168.

Crystal Coast Dentistry’s In-House Dental Plans

UPDATE 04/06/22 revised link to document.
UPDATE 10/30/23 updated link to Dental Plan.

The ADA recommends regular dental exams and cleanings each year to prevent oral disease and tooth loss. Many people desire to have healthy teeth and gums and want to know how to fit dental care into their budget. Two common options are dental insurance and Care Credit, a type of dental care credit card. We understand these options may not be available or the best options for everyone. That is why at Crystal Coast Dentistry we have created an In-House Dental Discount Plan.

Frequently people question the necessity and feasibility of dental insurance for their dental care needs. Traditional insurance plans require monthly premiums and co-payments that vary based on exam type and treatment received. Patients do not necessarily know what their financial responsibility will be until after treatment has been completed and their bill has been submitted to their insurance company.

Care Credit is used like traditional credit cards. Patients are responsible for the full cost of dental exams and treatments. Care Credit typically requires full payment within a limited time frame and involves an interest rate between 11.49 -23.49 %.

Our In-House Dental Discount Plan helps make dental care affordable for those who do not have insurance. With one annual membership fee, patients are eligible for 2 regular check-ups and cleanings, unlimited emergency visits, and a 30% discount off each customary fee for treatment procedures.

Other benefits of the In-House Dental Discount Plan include:

  • No waiting periods
  • No claim forms
  • No restrictions of treatment
  • No pre-determinations for treatment
  • And no age limitations

We strive to help our patients achieve and maintain excellent oral health while limiting confusion and anxiety over the cost of care through our In-House Dental Discount Plan.

Please review the In House Dental Benefits Plan and call to enroll today!

Broken or Chipped Tooth?

 A broken or chipped tooth is a very common occurrence we see at Crystal Coast Dentistry.  Although your tooth is surrounded by enamel (the strongest substance your body produces), there are times when your tooth may still break.  While this is an upsetting and frightening experience, don’t panic…there are things you can do.  And Crystal Coast Dentistry is here to help!

Depending on the severity of the damage of your broken tooth, you may or may not experience immediate discomfort.  Even if your chipped or broken tooth is not painful, it is never a good idea to leave it unattended.  Your broken or chipped tooth has the potential to cause further damage.  If the pulp is damaged, the pulp may be defenseless against bacterial infection and tooth decay.  Furthermore, any jagged edges left unattended may cut or scratch your tongue, lips or cheeks.

Some good ideas from Crystal Coast Dentistry include:

    • Rinse your mouth with warm water.  This will wash away any dirt or debris that may be left from initial trauma.

 

    • If there is pain and/or swelling, you may take over the counter pain relievers.  (Crystal Coast Dentistry urges you to only take OTC pain relievers if you have no allergies to OTC pain relievers, or if OTC pain relievers do not interfere with any other medications you are taking.)

 

    • An ice pack or a cold compress held to the side of the face closest to the broken or chipped tooth may help ease pain or swelling.

 

    • If bleeding is present, you may apply pressure with a clean gauze pad until the bleeding subsides.

 

Visit your dentist immediately to treat your cracked or broken tooth.  Crystal Coast Dentistry is here to serve you 5 days a week, and we accept emergencies.  Call us at 252-393-8168 to request an appointment.

Necessity of Regular Dental Visits for People with Dentures

While patients with complete dentures no longer have natural teeth, there are several compelling reasons why they should still visit the dentist regularly. The comfort and stability of dentures is dependent upon the amount of bone structure and the health of periodontal (gum) tissues, which act as the foundation for the dentures. During regular dental visits a dentist will evaluate the gums for disease and check the patient’s bite, make adjustments and repairs to the dentures, provide advice on denture maintenance, offer professional cleaning, screen for oral cancer and discuss new options.

Infections of the gums can be painful, cause bad breath, and result in poor fitting dentures that make chewing and speaking difficult. Additionally gum infections are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, some cancers and accelerated rate of Alzheimer’s disease development. A dentist is able to diagnose and treat gum infections during a regular exam.

Dentures support the facial muscles and the jaw line. Proper bite is essential to avoid sore spots and problems with chewing and speaking. A dentist is able to evaluate any changes to fit as dentures wear down over time and make necessary adjustments. Adhesives may also be recommended.

Proper maintenance helps to preserve dentures. Similarly to natural teeth, hard mineral deposits that cause stains and foul-smelling breath may develop on dentures. Professional cleanings may be advised during a regular dental visit to help remove these deposits. The dentist may also recommend special cleaners to use at home.

Oral cancer screening is an important part of regular dental visits, especially patients with poorly fitting dentures as they can be at an increased risk of developing oral cancer. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

Regular dental visits will keep patients updated on the latest developments in denture style and fit options. The dentist is able to discuss the use of implants or other options to improve patient satisfaction with dentures.

There are many important reasons for people with dentures to continue with regular dental visits. At Crystal Coast Dentistry we strive to offer excellent comfort, fit and appearance of dentures for our patients.

Dental Implants

While high-tech in nature, dental implants are actually more tooth-saving than traditional bridgework, since implants do not rely on neighboring teeth for support. When you have your natural teeth, you may talk, smile and laugh with confidence , and that affects how you feel about yourself, both personally and professionally. Today’s dental implants can offer replacement teeth that look and feel like your own, so you may forget you ever lost a tooth. Dental implants have helped hundreds of thousands of people, and with proper care, implants can last a lifetime. Whether you’re missing a single tooth or need a complete set of teeth, talk with Crystal Coast Dentistry about the benefits dental implants can offer.

The Facts about Dental Implants

Dental implants are the permanent way to replace missing teeth, with a look and feel that’s very close to your natural teeth. Implants are metal posts or frames surgically placed into the bone beneath your gums. The implants fuse with the jawbone providing stable support to artificial teeth, preventing individual teeth, bridges or dentures from shifting in your mouth. They are a high-tech way to replace missing teeth, and offer more stability than traditional bridgework since they do not rely on neighboring teeth for support.

Implant Supported Teeth:

  • Allow you to speak, smile and eat with confidence
  • Are comfortable and stay in place
  • Function, look and feel like natural teeth
  • Do not need adjacent teeth for support

What Happens During Treatment?

Implant treatment is usually performed by a general dentist, oral surgeon, prosthodontist, periodontist or a team of these doctors.  To devise the best treatment plan for you, we first complete a medical and dental history and a thorough oral examination with x-rays.

First, a member of your team surgically places the implant in the jaw with the top of the implant just above the top of the bone.  Generally, from three to six months or more is allowed for the bone tissue to grow around the implant and hold them securely in place.

Immediately after surgery, we will give you specific post-surgical instructions to assure the best possible healing.  In some cases, we may prescribe antibiotics to aid in the healing process and help alleviate any discomfort.  At this time you may be fitted with temporary dentures or natural-looking teeth to help you function as normally as possible.  You will need to follow important dietary and oral hygiene instructions.

Once the jawbone has firmly healed around the implant, a small post is attached to each implant.  The post protrudes through the gum line and serves as an anchor for the replacement tooth.  After your gums have fully healed, the replacement teeth or dentures are securely attached to the posts.

What are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

Because dental implants are designed to fit the structure of your natural teeth, they provide highly stable support to:

  • Replace one or more teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
  • Support a bridge and eliminate the need for a removable partial denture.
  • Provide support for a denture, making it more secure and comfortable.

Other Benefits Include:

Increased self-confidence. Because dental implants function like natural teeth, your confidence will be renewed.

Improved biting posture. Healthy teeth are able to absorb over 500 pounds of biting pressure per square inch.  Dental implants can often restore the amount of pressure that can be withstood compared to the same level of healthy natural teeth.

Longevity and reliability. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth.  Because implants integrate into the structure of your jawbone, they can help prevent bone loss and gum recession.  With proper oral care and regular dental visits, implants can last a lifetime.

We are excited to offer the most advanced dental implant technology to you. It’s part of our commitment to help you keep a healthy, great-looking smile for a lifetime.

This information is taken from our brochure by Smart Practice.

Serving Morehead City with Outstanding Dental Care

Just minutes from Morehead City, Crystal Coast Dentistry, located on Highway 24 in Cape Carteret, serves Morehead City with outstanding dentistry. Our dentists have served Morehead City, and all citizens of Carteret County for years with the utmost dental services, including cleanings, fillings, extractions, root canals, and teeth whitening just to name a few.

Our dentist and dental team serve many residents of Morehead City with superb dental care. As a matter of fact, the majority of our new patients come from patient referrals. If you live in or are visiting the Morehead City area, and find yourself in need of a dentist (no matter if it is a cleaning, a dental emergency or a consultation), please give us a call and allow the dentists and dental team at Crystal Coast Dentistry show you our level of care.

Are you brushing your teeth correctly?

Crystal Coast Dentistry, located approximately 16 miles from Morehead City,  wants to instill this in our patients. So much so that we provide a new toothbrush for each and every patient who comes in for a dental cleaning.  The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you brush your teeth twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush.  Crystal Coast Dentistry urges you to listen to the American Dental Association’s recommendations, and act upon the ADA’s recommendations.  Crystal Coast Dentistry wants all the people of Carteret County to have superior dental health.

Furthermore, Crystal Coast Dentistry dentists and hygienists often get asked “what is the proper way to brush your teeth?”  The American Dental Association states that the proper brushing technique is to:

·         “Place you toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to the gums.

·         Move the brush back and forth gently in short (tooth-wide) strokes

·         Brush the outer surfaces, the inner surfaces, and the chewing surfaces of the teeth.

·         To clean the inside surfaces of the front teeth, tilt the brush vertically and make several up and down strokes.

·         Brush your tongue to remove bacteria and keep your breath fresh.”

(information above was gathered from American Dental Association Website – http://www.mouthhealthy.org)

Crystal Coast Dentistry and the American Dental Association wants to make sure you know that brushing your teeth is not the only thing recommended for your oral health.  Bacteria can still linger between your teeth after brushing, where the toothbrush bristles can not reach.  Don’t forget to floss!

Make sure to visit your dentist every 6 months for your dental cleanings!  Carteret County’s Crystal Coast Dentistry is always accepting new patients, and we files all insurances.  Crystal Coast Dentistry is proud to say we are in network with 5 major dental insurance providers, plus Medicaid and NC Health Choice.